How to create a Mermaid Festival EVERYONE will LOVE!

Creating a truly unforgettable mermaid festival isn’t just about tails and tinsel—it’s about crafting a space where everyone feels seen, welcomed, and swept up in the magic. And if there’s anyone who knows exactly how to make that happen, it’s Sandra Rozar—also known in the MerCommunity as The Caribbean Pearl, the Pirate Siren – Jewel o’ the Oceans.

I’m Corinna, CEO and founder of MerMapp, and during our 2024 MerCommunity Tour across the U.S., I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Sandra not just once, but at two different mermaid festivals. In the brief time we spent together getting to know each, it quickly became clear that I had to get her take on what makes a mermaid festival truly shine:

Sandra has been a mermaid for almost 15 years, with a trail of glittering experience behind her:

• 🧜‍♀️ 13 mermaid conventions (yes, even through COVID—she made it to the online one)

• 🌊 4 official Mermaid Parades

• ⚓ Over 360 pirate and mermaid-related festivals and events

• 🐚 50+ mermaid meetups coast to coast

🐚 Festival Origins & Community Roots

In your experience, what are the absolute must-haves for any mermaid festival?

In my experience, two absolute essentials for any event are food and a live MC/DJ. While festivals are generally going well these days, they often lack access to food for the hundreds of hungry attendees after a full day of swimming and activities. A simple solution is to hire a food truck. You don’t need multiple trucks—just one will suffice! This ensures that the food truck vendor can make a profit while keeping your attendees satisfied. Additionally, having a live MC/DJ will help engage the crowd, keeping them informed and entertained throughout the event.

What elements turn an event from “pretty good” into “absolutely magical”?

For me, the most important aspect is the people. It's especially meaningful when everyone comes together as a group and momentarily forgets the challenges in our lives. We swim, laugh, sing (though I must admit, I'm not the best singer), dance, and share our experiences of how we became mermaids. That's the real magic!

What are your tips to attendend a MerCon from the POV of an event organizer, performer, vendor, family, and first-timers?

This is a fascinating question, and I love it! I have one simple rule: I always say hello to every single attendee, introduce myself, and be friendly. Taking the time to know and welcome others is invaluable, especially for first-timers who may feel overwhelmed or shy.

I also like to arrive early when vendors are available to talk. This gives me the opportunity to check out their products and perhaps make a purchase or two. As a former performer, I consider myself a planner, so I always create a schedule of the shows I want to see. If I’m performing, I make sure to be on time and well-prepared. To be honest, mermaiding conventions don’t often require many performances, so we’re generally in good shape.

I usually attend events alone and don’t have to worry about family obligations. However, having the support of loved ones is important, so I recommend sharing at least breakfast or dinner with them to make them feel included in your experiences.

🧜‍♀️ Programming & Activities

What kinds of activities or shows consistently get the best response?

Group swims & games, time to meet-up and connect with other participatns, Karaoke , and the ball. Unfortunately, the balls - which can be one of the crown-jewels of such an event - nowadays are being converted into something limited or exclusive (either through high ticket prices or small rooms) instead of finding a big ballroom or venue where every single attendee can be part of it and transforming it into the big, inclusive finale of the event.

How important are performances like mermaid swims, parades, or panels?

Panels are incredibly important and educational. Most panels provide firsthand information on how we can get involved with our communities, restorations, and the protection of our planet. Having celebrity guests inspires us and teaches us that being a mermaid is not just about wearing a pretty tail. If we have a platform or a voice that others listen to, we become stronger and better mermaid advocates.

Mermaid swims can be challenging; to do them right, they require a big screen, monitor, or acrylic tank where everyone can see the performers. To make it work, you'll ideally work together with an aquarium or venues designed for aquatic shows. If you manage to get it organized well, mermaid performances are HUGE highlights as everyone can see the grace, talent, and athleticism of the performers - it's like witnessing ballet for the first time.

I love parades because they showcase our cities and invite everyone to participate and swim with us. (Tip: Parades often help attract potential sponsors!)

How do you ensure there’s something for all ages and experience levels?

I need to address this question from two points of view. For a festival to be successful, it must be family-friendly, featuring a kid zone, activities, and performances that appeal to parents (think of the Disney formula). Festivals aim to generate revenue by offering a variety of entertainment and selling items to attendees. Parents are more likely to spend money when the focus is on their children.

Conventions are also profitable, but they attract diverse audiences because they cater to various interests. For example, there are conventions like Comic Con, Zumba Con, and Mermaid Con, among others. When we choose to attend a convention, it’s often because it aligns with our specific interests, bringing together people who share those passions.

Mermaid Con, in particular, was once filled with activities that fostered a sense of community among merfolk. It was a fun experience held at a fantastic venue where everyone stayed in the same place and participated in leisure activities designed just for us. The convention felt more like a big family vacation with friends—without kids—offering a wonderful escape from daily responsibilities.

In my opinion, children should have their own special mini-con where organizers hire mermaids and other entertainers specifically for them. This difference in focus might explain why meet-ups and retreats are becoming more popular than traditional conventions.

What are common activity-based mistakes first-time organizers tend to make?

Scheduling leisure activities, classes, and events too early on the last day of the convention! Most attendees are travelers who need to check out of their hotels by 11 AM. Additionally, many participants are likely to have attended a party or ball the night before. To increase attendance for the last day's activities (Sunday), it would be better to start them after 10:30 AM.

How did you first get involved with mermaid festivals?

I got involved with mermaid festivals in 2009 when I attended my first event, the Key Largo Pirates & Mermaid Festival in Florida. At the time, I had no idea what the festival was about; I thought it was just a costume event for adults. However, my curiosity was sparked when I saw a stunning Siren-Pirate, and from that moment, I knew what type of mermaid I wanted to portray.

I spent a good hour talking with one particular vendor and organizer, Ms. Kathy Gilbert, also known as Black Kat. Everything I learned about festivals and private events came from her and her partner, Dagger Mouth Mike. She later became my mentor and godmother of piracy.

It wasn't until 2014 that I became involved in organizing a mermaid convention/festival. Initially, I participated as a performer, but I quickly became involved with setup, organization, and vendor coordination. In 2014, I was asked to be a Mermaid Consultant for the first Merfest in North Carolina by its founder and organizer, Christopher Chandler, also known as The Mer-King ChristoMer.

What made the earliest festivals special—and how have they evolved?

What made the earliest festivals special was the sense of sisterhood and the warm welcome that allowed everyone to be accepted for who they were in a safe space. The first five mermaid conventions (2011-2015) were truly magical. I had never encountered a group of women, mostly strangers to one another, with diverse situations, backgrounds, and body types, where the focus was solely on lifting each other up, fostering friendship, and spreading happiness. I had only felt this way in the belly dance community. In those moments, we were all mermaids, regardless of our tails, costumes, or levels of expertise. It was a celebration of magical creatures.

As the festivals and conventions grew in popularity and size, a community was born: the mer-community. What began as a festival to celebrate the history and beauty of being a mermaid has evolved into a billion-dollar industry, with classes, certifications, merchandise, and leisure activities becoming the focal point, and sadly, overshadowing the original sense of sisterhood.

What role does the mermaid community play in shaping a festival’s vibe?

I want to start by saying that without our mermaid community, festivals simply wouldn't exist! The passion, desire, and energy that every individual mermaid, merman, and siren brings to each festival, event, and convention is truly contagious. We all aspire to be better people, and our community fosters that growth. With every new mer-person born, we carry the hope for a better world, especially in raising awareness for marine life and our oceans, which will continue through the generations to come.

🐬 Venue & Location

What makes a great mermaid festival location? Ocean, lake, pool, or land-based?

It’s essential to have access to water! Location is everything! One of the great mermaid festivals has been organized at travel destinations that offer access to the ocean and swimming pools for both day and night activities. Some of these venues were chosen for their short driving distance to natural attractions like springs, lakes, rivers, underwater caves, or cenotes, making daily trips convenient. Yes, you can have it all! Hosting a convention or festival in a hotel with a large pool close to the ocean is a definite advantage. I have attended at least four conventions that meet all these criteria, and I have never been disappointed. It has been the most fun I’ve ever had!

Any tips for working with local authorities or water safety teams?

Any mermaid event should prioritize water safety. A lifeguard must be on duty at all times. Collaborating with local authorities can significantly impact your event's success. Involving them in your planning by coordinating programs that engage the community—such as water safety initiatives—can be very effective. If you reach out to them and arrange a meeting in advance, they may provide volunteers to assist at your event and set up informational booths. It's important to make them a part of your event.

What common venue-related mistakes do first-time organizers make?

The most common venue-related mistakes I have witnessed include dividing the event across multiple locations and not providing access to food trucks. Many attendees travel by plane from other states or countries. It creates a significant inconvenience when the venue locations, hotels, swimming areas, and ballrooms are not in the same complex, as this can lead to issues with ground transportation and wasted time.

🌊 Core Ingredients of a Successful Festival

💫 Look & Feel

How do you create an immersive underwater/fantasy vibe on land?

You can create an underwater or fantasy vibe on land by incorporating essential elements of the ocean. Use a color palette of blue and shimmering silver to mimic the ocean's appearance. Add LED lights, fabrics, balloons, and marine-themed props, along with ocean sounds, to enhance the atmosphere. Personally, I enjoy creating an underwater treasure cave, as I like to think of myself as a mer-pirate - aaarrgggghh ;-). I use pillows shaped like corals, shells, and various marine life, along with treasure chests, fishnets, and a carpet that resembles seagrass.

What’s the secret to making the festival feel like a mermaid world from the moment people arrive?

When I prepare for an event, I focus on creating a harmonious and colorful atmosphere with visual props that bring fantasy to life. These elements transport us to the enchanting worlds we believe were made for us, making me feel like I'm in the right place. The visual components enhance that magical experience and complement every event perfectly.

What’s something that’s harder than people think when organizing a festival?

I believe that the hardest part of organizing a festival is selecting the right days that don’t conflict with other events. Then, finding a venue that is large enough to accommodate it.

How far in advance should planning start?

The event should occur annually, with the next one ideally taking place on the same day next year. If you plan ahead and have the next event already planned and aligned with the venue, you can already advertise for it at your ongoing venue and participants can already commit to it for a discount right there an then! If that's not possible - the earlier the better!

What tools or systems help keep things organized?

This may sound silly, but always keep your calendar updated and your contacts organized.

💼 Behind the Scenes & Logistics

What makes a good vendor lineup at a mermaid event?

To create a successful vendor lineup, focus on including vendors that offer unique products. It's important to avoid having multiple vendors selling the same merchandise, as this can lead to competition among them. By providing exclusivity to each vendor, you increase their chances of making sales, which encourages them to return in future years. Aim to include a variety of vendors, such as local craftsmen, artisans, and those selling handmade goods. Additionally, consider featuring interactive vendors, collaborations with designers, and merchandise related to conventions or festivals. Finally, make sure to have one food truck and one beverage vendor among your offerings.

How can organizers attract high-quality sponsors or partnerships?

In today's world, it's challenging to connect personally because of the prevalence of “influencers,” but I genuinely believe in the value of one-on-one meetings in person (not via video chat), the old-fashioned way. This approach is particularly important now that mermaids have become popular.

When you present your project professionally and engage potential sponsors or partners face-to-face, you’re already halfway to success. Adding your vision, personality, and passion will take you the rest of the way. This is your most significant presentation, and you need to pitch it as such. Meeting with them in person is essential.

Participating in local events can also be beneficial. Engage with the community and ask questions about how to drive more traffic to their businesses, especially during off-season. Here’s a valuable tip: if you’re interested in collaborating with a hotel, reach out to their marketing department and request a meeting with the relevant person.

During your meeting, inquire about the times when the hotel experiences the lowest occupancy rates, whether during the week or on weekends. If both parties can find a mutually convenient time, you can secure a partnership or sponsorship with the hotel. Remember, it’s important for both sides to benefit: the hotel gains room sales, while you offer a discounted rate for attendees (and I’m not talking about a mere 10-15% discount).

Additionally, if you're looking to partner with a beverage company, it's crucial to start working on this as a part of your event planning. Ensure that you have a deal in place at least a year in advance; waiting until three months before your event will likely result in your request being denied.

Are there any unexpected community roles people should consider (like safety divers, tail repair artists, eco-activists)?

The short answer is YES! In my 13 years as a Mer-Con attendant, I have only witnessed one eco-activity, and that was in 2015. Clearly, we need more. Our planet, especially our oceans, is at greater risk than I have seen in my 57 years of life. We need to become more active in this effort and focus less on underwater photoshoots, which can be done at another time. I don’t understand why anyone would engage in such activities during a festival or convention when there’s already so much stress involved.

Local safety divers are always a good alternative; you can contact them to invite them to promote their dive shop, classes, tours, and more as part of the festival. Additionally, check with marine mammal conservation organizations and university marine biology programs for potential collaboration. Cleanup events are also great, but I've only seen them occur once a year, which is not enough, and participation from our mermaid community has always been minimal.

🛍️ Vendors, Sponsors & Collaborators

How can a mermaid festival be inclusive of all body types, backgrounds, and swim levels?

By practicing what everyone's preaching! The race topic is stil a delicate topic, and still posing challenges for many of us, including myself. Why? It’s true that we see more inclusivity at festivals today, but it is still not enough. Colored mers remain a minority and often lack consideration as a first choice. Our presence is often only acknowledged if we're willing to perform for free, while other performers are paid for the same type of work. Festival organizers and MerCommunity leaders speak about how inclusive they are, especially when the media is present, but I have witnessed firsthand that not much has changed in the last 15 years.

I would like to see a festival where all ethnicities are truly integrated, rather than segregated. If a representation panel is going to be created, it should include everyone, not just those who have been excluded for centuries. Inclusivity shouldn’t only be a concern when something goes wrong in our society or when it becomes a hot topic.

You may wonder how a mermaid festival can be inclusive. It can be achieved by including all body types, colors, backgrounds, and ethnicities in promotional materials. Play music of different ethnical backgrounds, even if some might find it too loud,don’t understand the language, or have never danced to those rhythms. Stop creating group photos based on body shapes or ethnicities, or using ethnic tailmakers simply for publicity. Group pictures should reflect everyone who attends the festival, just like in early conventions and festivals.

Another topic is different levels of swim capabilities. I have never seen swim level classes, except for the “mermaid certifications,” which seem to have been created just to make money. I would like to see a genuine class based on swimming levels that can assist those who struggle in the water.

What are some ways organizers can reduce environmental impact?

To promote sustainability at their event, organizers can implement a "bring your own reusable cup" policy and ban all forms of plastic, including bags, straws, cups, and single-use containers. They may choose to provide attendees with a welcome package that includes a reusable bag, straw, and cup. Alternatively, these items could be sold at the start of the event. Collaborating with vendors or sponsors to incorporate their logos on these reusable items is another effective option.

Have you seen a festival use its platform for ocean advocacy or conservation in a powerful way?

No - and I would love that to change as there's so much potential here!

🌱 Inclusivity, Impact & Sustainability

💖 Personal Wisdom & Advice

What’s the most magical moment you’ve ever experienced at a mermaid festival?

The most magical moment I experienced at a Mermaid Festival was when a little girl approached me with wide, surprised eyes and whispered in my ear that she wanted to be a mermaid because I looked like one. She was five years old. Before that, I never thought I could inspire anyone by dressing up as a mermaid. Today, I have around two dozen mer-sons, mer-daughters, mer-nephews, mer-nieces, and even one mer-godson whom I have helped, guided, or inspired to become a mermaid.

If you could give one piece of advice to a first-time festival organizer, what would it be?

Be kind and respectful to everyone around you, including those who volunteer and help with your event. Keep your word if you offer any kind of reward, deal, or promise to those who assist you. Engage with your attendees; even though you may be very busy, those personal moments can make a significant difference. Don't hesitate to ask for help, as you can't do everything by yourself. Additionally, try to keep all your events and activities in one location, as this is one reason many past events have declined in attendance. Lastly, remember not to make the event solely about yourself or your personal preferences. Be open-minded and think about what will best bring the community together.

What’s something you wish more people understood about what it takes to pull off a truly great mermaid event?

To pull off a great event is not easy and doesn’t happen in one day, week, or even a month. A great event takes months of hard work and coordination. It’s a production!

In other words—she’s seen it all. From the early days of grassroots gatherings to the growing wave of commercialized events, Sandra brings a rare, deeply personal, and experienced perspective to the conversation around how to create a mermaid festival that everyone will love.

Whether you’re planning your first small meetup, helping coordinate a local sea-themed parade, or dreaming of building the next big mer-con, this interview is packed with gems that will guide you like a lighthouse in the fog.

Ready to take notes? Let’s dive in. 🌊✨

Final Splash: A Perspective to Grow With

Sandra’s insights don’t claim to be the ultimate guide—but they come from a place of deep experience, fierce love for the community, and a desire to see us all grow stronger together. Her story reminds us that creating a mermaid festival everyone will love means listening, evolving, and holding space for joy and real conversations. At MerMapp, that’s exactly what we’re here to support—lifting up diverse voices, building better events, and helping our global pod create waves of positive change. Let’s keep learning from one another and making magic—together. 💙🌊